Description:
Erigeron inornatus (Gray) Gray var. viscidulus Gray, commonly known as Sticky daisy, is a herbaceous perennial plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family. The plant reaches a height of 10-50 cm and has a width of up to 60 cm.
Origin:
The plant is native to the western United States and is commonly found in the states of California, Nevada, and Arizona. It grows in a range of habitats, including sandy soils, rocky areas, and open meadows.
Common Names:
Erigeron inornatus (Gray) Gray var. viscidulus Gray is commonly known as Sticky daisy, Viscid fleabane, or Spreading fleabane.
Uses:
The plant Erigeron inornatus (Gray) Gray var. viscidulus Gray is not used for any medicinal, culinary, or commercial purposes. However, it is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens for its beautiful daisy-like flowers and its ability to attract pollinators to the garden.
General Appearance:
The leaves of the plant are alternate, elliptic to lanceolate in shape, with a length of up to 12 cm and a width of up to 2.5 cm. The stem is erect, branched, and covered with glandular hairs. The flowers are light pink to lavender in color, with yellow centers and a diameter of up to 2 cm. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer and continue flowering till late summer. The plant produces abundant seeds on wind-dispersed pappus, which allows it to spread easily.
Growth Conditions for Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus
Light: Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but it may result in reduced flowering and weaker stems.
Temperature: This plant is native to the western parts of the United States and is adapted to a variety of temperatures. It is relatively cold-hardy and can survive winter temperatures as low as -30°F. In the summer, it can tolerate high temperatures up to 100°F and above.
Soil: Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. However, it prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soils with a pH range between 6.0 and 8.0.
Water: Adequate moisture is necessary for the initial establishment of the plant. Once established, Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus is relatively drought tolerant and can survive extended periods of dry conditions. However, occasional watering during drought periods can help maintain healthy foliage and blooms.
Fertilizer: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the early spring can provide additional nutrients and promote healthy growth.
Propagation: Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus can be propagated by seed or division. Seed propagation requires stratification, which involves exposing the seeds to cold temperatures to break its dormancy. Division is best done in the spring, and the divisions should be replanted in well-draining soil.
Cultivation Methods
The Erigeron inornatus (Gray) Gray var. viscidulus Gray plant prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight exposure. It can grow in a variety of soil types, but it thrives best in sandy or rocky soil. Plant this perennial wildflower in the spring once the soil has thawed and the frost has dissipated. Planting in the fall is also an option, but this type of plant prefers warmer temperatures and might struggle to grow in colder weather.
To make sure the plant grows tall and upright, keep it in an area where it is not crowded by other plants. It can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, so adequate spacing is essential. In regions with hot summers, place the plant where it can receive partial shade in the afternoon to avoid scorching.
Watering Needs
The Erigeron inornatus (Gray) Gray var. viscidulus Gray plant needs watering regularly, especially when the topsoil is no longer moist. During the hot summer months, the plant may even require daily watering. However, avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and plant death. Overwatering can be avoided by checking the soil's moisture content before watering.
The water requirements of the plant may vary based on the time of the year, temperature, and weather conditions. During the winter, reduce the frequency of watering as the plant becomes dormant and does not require as much water.
Fertilization
Erigeron inornatus (Gray) Gray var. viscidulus Gray does not require too much fertilization as it thrives in lean soil. However, you can feed it with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to help it grow better. The best time to fertilize the plant is during early spring or late summer.
Use a slow-release fertilizer that releases nutrients over time instead of all at once. Avoid applying too much fertilizer as it can cause the plant to produce more foliage instead of flowers.
Pruning
Prune your Erigeron inornatus (Gray) Gray var. viscidulus Gray plants in the early spring before the blooming period. Prune the plant to the ground to remove the old dead leaves and stems. This will promote new growth and ensure healthy plant development.
If the plant begins to look leggy or unkempt during the growing season, pinch the growing tips with your fingers to encourage bushier growth. Deadheading is also essential when the flowers begin to fade. Remove the faded flowers to encourage the plant to produce more blooms, thus prolonging the blooming period.
Propagation of Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus
Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus, commonly known as Fleabane, is a hardy perennial plant that is native to North America. This herbaceous plant produces daisy-like flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. Propagation of this plant can be done through a variety of methods, including seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation via Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus is through seeds. The ideal time for seed harvesting is during the late summer and early fall, when the seed heads start to turn brown. Once the seeds have been harvested, they should be stored in a cool dry place until planting time.
To start seeds indoors, sow the seeds in trays filled with a good quality potting mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil, mist with water, and cover the tray with a clear plastic lid to retain moisture. Keep the tray in a warm, sunny location and make sure the soil remains moist throughout the germination period, which can take up to three weeks. After the seedlings have emerged and grown their true leaves, transplant them to individual containers.
Alternatively, seeds can be sown directly into the ground in the fall, where they will germinate the following spring. Prepare the planting site by loosening the soil to a depth of 6 inches and removing any weeds. Scatter the seeds thinly over the site and then cover with a thin layer of soil. Water the area well and keep the soil moist until the seeds have germinated.
Propagation via Stem Cuttings
Another way to propagate Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus is through stem cuttings. This method is best done in the late summer or early fall when the plant has finished blooming. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem and use a sharp knife to cut a 4-6 inch section. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the cutting, leaving only a few at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and then plant it in a pot filled with moist potting mix. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or wrap to create a mini greenhouse. Keep the pot in a warm location, out of direct sunlight, and water as needed to keep the soil moist. After several weeks, the cutting should start to grow roots.
After the roots have developed, transplant the new plant into individual pots and then move them outside once they have become established.
Disease Management for Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus
Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus is a sturdy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, some diseases may still affect the plant. The most common diseases that affect Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus include:
- Leaf spot: This disease causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and destroy them. Avoid overcrowding plants to reduce humidity levels which contribute to the spread of the disease.
- Powdery mildew: This disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. It is most common in humid conditions. To manage this disease, spray the plant with a fungicide that contains potassium bicarbonate or neem oil and avoid overcrowding the plants.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant. Symptoms include the yellowing and browning of leaves and the eventual death of the plant. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage. Also, avoid planting the Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus in areas with poor soil drainage.
Pest Management for Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus
Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus is not usually prone to pest infestations. However, some pests may still attack the plant. The most common pests that affect Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus include:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a jet of water to dislodge the insects or use an insecticide if the infestation is severe.
- Spider mites: These pests are difficult to see but can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To manage this pest, wash the leaves with soapy water or use an insecticide that contains neem oil.
Overall, Erigeron inornatus var. viscidulus is a relatively easy plant to maintain, and by following the above guidelines, you can protect it from common diseases and pests.
